a {real} American hero.

A {real} American hero sets a tone. He stands proud and others take notice - maybe even enough to walk in his footsteps some day.

a {real} American hero finds the JOY in a child's smile and gentleness in his flag-gripped fingers.

A {real} American hero looks up and answers to the {real} Commander in Chief.

A {real} American hero has a patient heart and watchful spirit.

A {real} American hero has an army of prayer warriors defending him.

I was blessed to watch 100s of {real} American heroes board a bus today on their way to Afghanistan. I watched as they kissed their wives and gently wiped their tears. I watched as they strolled their newborn children and tossed their toddlers into the air. I watch as they bought candies from vending machines and playfully purchased their final "Oregon" meal.

All I could think about was how heroic they {are}. All these men and women are {real} American heroes. Every.single.one. (but the dude in the middle there...third from the right...that's my brother and he's pretty special!!!)

See that blue, Oregon flag? It's practically pointing at Aaron!

These heroes of {ours} are loved. So very, very loved.

These heroes of {ours} will be missed. So very, very much.

I am so proud to stand next to a {real} American hero.

I am so proud to be on a field with countless others.

Thank you for your sacrifice.

Godspeed.

{only} 363 more days.

Ephesians 6:14

heads {up}

ever feel like you've got your head in the sand?

just wonderin'.

Tales from...the 4th grade

what I've learned about teaching 4th grade so far...

1. If a shoe is unlaced, tie it. It's easier that way. It just is.
2. Band aids need a {home} out in the open.
3. 4th graders LOVE jokes - especially my Pink Panther one ;)
4. "Tales of the 4th Grade Nothing" by Judy Blume is a great way to kick off the year.
5. Don't write in cursive {yet} because it's about as legible as hieroglyphics.
6. There are two times when an administrator will come in your room - when the Internet is down and you're wingin' some math games or the first day you attempt reading 'stations'. sigh.
7. Having a "person of the day" is VERY important.
8. Super sentences are just that - super.
9. A jar of sharpened pencils kicks the pants off 30 kids sharpening all at the same time any.day.of.the.week ;)
10. I really CAN get 30 kids up and moving in an orderly fashion with {lots} and {lots} of practice.

...and most of all, I've learned that kids are kids and I teach kids...
4th grade isn't so scary after all.